encourage speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "encourage speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to promoting or fostering verbal communication in a specific context, such as in a classroom or discussion setting. Example: "The teacher aims to encourage speaking among students to improve their language skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

To encourage speaking: Google, which has integrated Google Voice with Gmail to allow people to make or receive calls within their browsers.

The New Yorker

These include forming good habits such as verbalisation and taking 'time outs', and social restructuring around professional hierarchies, to encourage speaking out about safety.

BMC Medical Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Several participants who said they encouraged speaking in their English class complained that they had no directives for evaluation.

Language Testing in Asia

Puppets are another very effective way for encouraging speaking as it gets over self-consciousness.

The Guardian

Yet the creative business maneuvers adopted by the auction houses to land big consignments and encourage buyers speak of desperation.

The New York Times - Arts

Intellectuals felt encouraged to speak out.

The Economist

Inanimate objects are encouraged to speak.

The Guardian - Arts

During meetings, junior staff members are not encouraged to speak.

The New Yorker

They're not actually encouraged to speak out.

The New Yorker

Referees and players were encouraged to speak freely.

The New York Times

He added, "Players were encouraged to speak to their accountants".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "encourage speaking", consider the specific context and tailor your approach to promote a comfortable and inclusive environment for all participants.

Common error

Avoid solely focusing on the amount of speaking. Ensure that the encouragement also emphasizes clarity, thoughtful expression, and respectful listening to others.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encourage speaking" functions as a verb phrase, typically serving as the predicate or part of the predicate in a sentence. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used to express the act of promoting verbal communication.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

34%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "encourage speaking" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of promoting verbal communication. While Ludwig identifies it as usable and correct in written English, it is relatively rare. The phrase sees use across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings, with a neutral to professional register. To broaden your vocabulary, alternatives such as "foster dialogue" and "promote verbal communication" can be used depending on the specific context. It is important to remember that when encouraging speaking, the focus should be on both quantity and quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

promote verbal communication

A more formal and general alternative, suitable for diverse contexts.

facilitate conversation

Focuses on making conversation easier and more accessible.

foster dialogue

Emphasizes a reciprocal exchange rather than a one-way promotion of speech.

stimulate discussion

Suggests sparking interest and activity, leading to increased verbal interaction.

motivate speech

Highlights the aspect of providing a reason or impetus to speak.

cultivate expression

Suggests a gradual development and refinement of speaking skills.

nurture articulation

Focuses on improving clarity and precision in speech.

inspire oration

Implies a higher level of formal speaking or public address.

incentivize discourse

Implies providing rewards or motivation to encourage speaking.

support vocalization

A broader term that can include non-verbal sounds, not just structured speech.

FAQs

How can I "encourage speaking" in a classroom setting?

Create a supportive environment by using positive reinforcement, asking open-ended questions, and valuing all contributions. Techniques like think-pair-share can also be effective.

What are some alternatives to "encourage speaking"?

You can use alternatives like "promote verbal communication", "foster dialogue", or "facilitate conversation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "encourage speaking" or "encourage to speak"?

"Encourage speaking" is generally preferred as it is more concise and grammatically sound. "Encourage to speak" is also acceptable but less common.

How does "encourage speaking" differ from "promote discussion"?

"Encourage speaking" focuses on enabling individuals to express themselves verbally, while "promote discussion" emphasizes a back-and-forth exchange of ideas among multiple participants.